NIHR Participates in the First International Conference on Alternative Sentencing
The National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR), represented by its Chairperson, Eng. Ali Ahmed Alderazi, participated in the First International Conference on Alternative Sentencing, organized by the Ministry of Interior. The event was attended by several ministers and brought together a distinguished group of officials, experts, and specialists in the fields of restorative and criminal justice, as well as human rights, from both within the Kingdom of Bahrain and abroad.
During the opening session of the conference, Alderazi reviewed the international frameworks—particularly those of the United Nations—that form the basis of the philosophy behind alternative sentencing. He highlighted the Institution’s role in promoting human rights by supporting and implementing the alternative sentencing program. He also discussed a key initiative launched by the NIHR, in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior, to establish a joint working group aimed at engaging private sector companies in the implementation of alternative sentences through rehabilitation and training programs for offenders—thereby aiding their reintegration into society.
Alderazi further underscored the role of the NIHR’s advisory team, working alongside civil society organizations, in supporting this effort through the organization of dialogue sessions and awareness events focused on safeguarding the rights of beneficiaries of alternative sentences—specifically in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, housing, and freedom of movement.
He emphasized the importance of synergy among human rights institutions, government bodies, and civil society organizations to ensure the success of the program. Alderazi affirmed that the NIHR, through this model, aims to guarantee the protection of fundamental rights for beneficiaries, and to achieve the objective of successful social reintegration as an effective alternative to custodial sentences—aligning with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s human rights principles and reform-oriented vision.
In this context, His Excellency Lieutenant-General Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior, honored the NIHR Chairperson as part of the conference’s official recognition of its speakers, praising the forward-looking perspectives and innovative ideas presented, which contributed to the sharing of experiences and the showcasing of pioneering practices.
